“I don’t think it’s a matter of dispute that expenses and medical care and those needs arise before birth… This makes sure that the mother is taken care of—prenatal care and postnatal care.” – Sen. Hughes
In a groundbreaking move, the Texas Senate passed SB 942 last Wednesday, mandating fathers to pay child support starting from conception. Introduced by Sen. Bryan Hughes, the bill aims to shift financial responsibility earlier in the parenting timeline.
“The responsibility that the mom is bearing does not begin at birth, but starts months before that,” Hughes stated. The law covers prenatal care, maternity-related costs, and potential living expenses, pending paternity proof.
While hailed by many as a win for maternal health, the bill sparked debate. Sen. Sarah Eckhart questioned if parents of boys should begin saving for future child support once sons reach puberty—a rhetorical challenge to gender norms in financial parenting roles.
“This makes sure that the mother is taken care of—prenatal care and postnatal care,” Hughes responded.
With SB 942, Texas steps into uncharted territory, redefining parental accountability before birth.
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